Striped Searobin

Striped Searobin Sounds (Prionotus evolans)

 

Description

Courtesy of Don Flescher

The striped searobin occurs along the Western Atlantic coast from Nova Scotia to Florida, although it is rare north of Cape Cod. It primarily inhabits sandy bottoms within estuaries and nearshore waters to 180m depth. Like many species occurring within this geographic range, the striped searobin spawns in late spring through summer and migrates into deeper waters and southward during the winter months. Large fan-like pectoral fins are used to glide along the bottom and stir up sediment to expose prey. This species reaches maturity by its second or third year.Searobins are well known for their sound producing abilities. A variety of sounds have been documented including barks, growls, and clucks. The behavioral context of these different sounds is largely unknown. However the staccato call has been observed more commonly during the spawning season and is believed to be associated with reproductive behavior. Searobins possess a very large swim bladder that is vibrated by a variety of muscular and fibrous attachments.